Visit the Historic Site of Storer College

Explore a Legacy of Education and Equality in Harpers Ferry

The former campus of Storer College is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history, civil rights, or the power of education to transform lives.

What You’ll See Today at the Site of Storer College

Though the college closed in 1955, its legacy is preserved within Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Visitors to the site can walk the grounds where generations of African-American students studied, lived, and grew into leaders. Several original buildings remain, most notably Anthony Hall, which now serves as the park’s administrative headquarters. Interpretive signs throughout the campus share the story of Storer College—from its founding after the Civil War to its role in the early civil rights movement.

While visiting the historic site of Storer College:

• Walk through the former campus and imagine life at one of the earliest integrated schools in the U.S. South.
• View informative exhibits detailing the college’s mission to educate freedmen, its notable alumni, and its involvement in the Niagara Movement.
• Stand where history happened, including the 1906 meeting of the Niagara Movement—an early step toward the creation of the NAACP.
• Explore Harpers Ferry’s other landmarks just a short walk away, including the Appalachian Trail Visitor Center and John Brown’s Fort.

Why It Matters

Founded in 1867, Storer College was a beacon of hope for African Americans seeking education and equality in the wake of the Civil War. The college broke barriers, welcomed students of all races, and helped launch the careers of influential leaders like J.R. Clifford, Coralie Franklin Cook, and Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first president.

Good to Know

• Location: Camp Hill, Harpers Ferry, WV (follow signs within Harpers Ferry National Historical Park)
• Cost: Access is included with your park admission.
• Hours: Grounds open year-round; best explored during daylight hours.
• Tip: Stop by the nearby Information Center or book a guided tour to get deeper insights into the site’s impact.

A Reflective Stop on Any Trip to Harpers Ferry

Whether you’re a history buff, a student of social justice, or simply exploring the scenic beauty of Harpers Ferry, visiting the site of Storer College offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us—and the work that remains today.